10 Lip-smacking Makhana (Fox-Nuts) Recipes For A Healthy Lifestyle

Is it snack time for you? And are you looking for something that doesn't take much effort and is delicious and healthy?  Then we got you! Makhana dishes have the distinction of being both highly nutritious and unexpectedly pleasant.

What Makhana is Made Up Of?

Makhana is a kind of seed obtained from the Euryale ferox plant and is a part of the lotus flower. These seeds after being processed are edible and also highly nutritious. The seeds collected from deep parts of a pond are cleaned and washed thoroughly. Then the process of rolling the seeds occurs, to make their surface smooth. Then the gradation of the seeds is done wherein they are passed through 10 sieves, and the ones that remain are selected. These seeds are then heated or fried, and then cleaned until the white puff pops out of the brown seeds.

Makhana, which is extracted from the spiny water lily and is also referred to as lotus seeds or fox nuts,  are high in manganese, potassium, magnesium, thiamine, protein, and phosphorus, among additional minerals. Makhana roasts are low in saturated fats, cholesterol & sodium and high in essential amino acids, making them a terrific snack while staying in shape. Furthermore, They're convenient to carry, making a fantastic tiffin choice, and are a delightful snack to satisfy hunger. Phool Makhana recipes are also easy to cook, and one can prepare a delicious meal with makhanas in no time. Moreover, one can easily buy makhanas online and make yummy recipes for oneself and family.

Health Benefits of Phool Makhanas / Fox Nuts

Makhanas has been used in Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine for centuries. Here are some of the health benefits of Phool Makhanas: (1)

• They purify and detox the spleen, as well as support the removal of all poisons from the body. 
• They promote the regulation of blood pressure and the enhancement of metabolism for improved digestion. The presence of low sodium and fat content helps regulate blood pressure.
• They offer minimal calorie & glycaemic indices, which assist people with diabetes keep their blood sugar levels in check. 
• The consumption of makhana fry with milk daily will increase bone strength and density. This is due to their high calcium content, which improves bone and cartilage health and prevents bone diseases.
• Finally, the antioxidants in makhanas contribute to the skin's health and radiance.
• Makhana maintains kidney health by controlling blood flow and urine regulation. 

Nutritional Value of makhana

100g of makhana contains the following nutritional elements:

• The makhana calories in 100g of the seeds are 347 kcal.
• Protein is 9.7 gm
• Fat is 0.1 gm
• Carbohydrates are 76.9 g
• Fibre is 14.9 gm
• Calcium is 60mg 
• Iron is 1.4 mg

Given makhana has so many perks, we've put together a list of mouth-watering fox nut recipes 

1. Phool makhana curry

The Phool makhana curry is a one-of-a-kind, simple, and delectable Indian dish. This makhana sabzi adds a lot of diversity to the regular meal menu.  It's a thick and creamy curry owing to the roasted foxnuts and cashews. If you're looking for fasting foods that are satisfying and delicious, notably during Navratri, then this makhana recipe is perfect for you. It is one of the best makhana recipes for lunch that gives your mouth a delightful sensation. 

2. Makhane ki sabzi

Makhana Sabzi is a meal high in protein and calcium. A delightful side dish cooked with makhana and green peas is the Bihari makhana aur matar sabzi recipe. The panch phoran gives the meal a lovely aroma. It is an edible and tasty dish because of ordinary and simple spices. The essential step here is to roast the makhana and let it cool. For a delightful weekday meal, try the Bihari makhana aur matar sabzi recipe with phulkas and kadhi barif.

3. Makhana kheer

Kheer made from Makhana (fox nut kheer) is a natural sweet dish cooked with foxnuts, milk, ghee, sugar, and dry fruits. It is a simple and beloved treat and is frequently prepared during Navratri, Mahashivratri, or Ekadasi Fasting. Makhane ki kheer can be served hot, warm, or cold. The consistency of the kheer thickens slightly after refrigeration. This is one of the best makhana recipes for babies and toddlers. Moreover, you can serve it as a delicacy for any occasion. 

4. Paneer makhana

In an onion tomato gravy, Phool makhana paneer matar curry is cooked with roasted foxnuts (Phool makhana), paneer (cottage cheese), green peas, and cashews. This gluten-free, vegetarian makhana sabzi recipe pairs wonderfully alongside any Indian bread. Paneer is a high-protein dairy product that complements this matar makhana recipe nicely. Consume promptly with pooris, parathas, or jeera rice, sprinkled with coriander and lime juice. It is one of the fantastic makhana recipes for weight gain. 

5. Masala makhana

Masala makhana is a healthy snack food prepared using lotus seed and fresh spices that are quick and easy to make. It is usually prepared and eaten during a fast since it provides all of the necessary nutrients. The recipe only calls for a few components, but stirring takes a long time. One to two fistfuls of Makhana will suffice to provide beneficial health benefits. Allow the Makhana to reach room temperature before serving. This roasted makhana masala can be served immediately or placed in a jar for later use. This spicy roasted makhana recipe can be considered as one of the best makhana recipes for weight loss. 

6. Makhana halwa

Makhana Halwa is an easy, quick-to-make meal that is gluten-free and high in calcium, protein, and iron. Makhanas must be powdered for this Halwa. The good news is that you can prepare the mixture ahead of time and keep it in an airtight jar to use whenever you want. It's also an excellent infant food if you've begun eating nuts. This is one of the healthiest makhana recipes for breakfast and served as a porridge with plenty of raisins and nuts. If you want something sweet, make this Halwa and relish every bite. 

7. Mushroom makhana 

It's a flavorful mushroom sabzi for everyday use. Long after you've finished eating, the richness of mushroom makhana lingers in your mouth and mind! This exquisite curry starts with a rich tomato-onion gravy and adds an exciting combination of vegetables like mushrooms and makhana. The cashew nuts in the onion-tomato blend lend smoothness to the veg makhana dish, and the sautéed cashew nuts offer a great crisp and taste to the recipe, making it a truly unique meal to serve. With naan or roti, enjoy the Indian mushroom makhana dish, which is warm and delicious. This is one of the famous makhana recipes for lunch and one can try this for sure.

8. Makhana Aloo Tikki

Makhana Aloo Tikki Recipe is a tasty dish full of roasted, pounding, and mixing makhana with potato and Indian spices. It's then pan-cooked on each side until lightly brown and crunchy. It is a perfect go-to makhana snack recipe and can be enjoyed during your tea time. Serve Makhana Aloo Tikki (Spiced Lotus Seed Patties) with Dhaniya Pudina and hot tea! 

9. Makhana raita

Makhana Ka Raita is a simple Indian dish made with yoghurt (curd) and roasted makhana (puffed Lotus seeds) as well as Indian spice mixes. This raita is quick and simple to prepare, and it's a nice change from the usual vegetable raita. Makhana, also known as Lotus seeds or fox nut, is a unique ingredient that is high in minerals, making it a nutritious addition to our raita. If you're fasting during Navratri, this is the ideal vrat dish. Keep it refrigerated until ready to eat. Offer Makhana Ka Raita with Biryani, Jeera Basmati, Pulao, and Paratha. 

10. Makhana chaat

A delicious and healthful chaat recipe, roasted makhana chaat is a great choice for a sunset bite. This recipe is packed with healthy ingredients, including probiotic yoghurt (optional), warm and spicy green chutney, spicy, sweet, and sour tamarind chutney, and high-fiber, low-calorie fox nuts and chop up some onions, tomatoes and coriander for that additionally crunch. Mix it all together and serve! This dish is the healthiest and has the most fantastic flavour. This dish makes for one of the best makhana snack recipes. You can add spices to your dish towards the end to add taste based on your preferences. Enjoy the sweetness of makhana chaat with the addition of cashews and raisins. 

You can see now how primary and minor ingredients may be used to make a range of healthy foods! If you're looking for a quick bedtime snack or something to serve in a family dinner, try delightful Makhanas only from I Say Organic.

How To Eat Fox Nuts For Weight Loss

1. Peri Peri Makhana:

Roast the makhana on a pan, you can dry roast them or add ghee as per your taste. After the makhana has been roasted, remove the makhana and let them cool. In the same pan add some ghee on low heat and add peri peri masala. Add the roasted makhanas and toss it together to mix well. 

2. Makhana Chivda:

Dry roast the makhanas as mentioned in the above recipe and let them cool off until the makhanas become crunchy. Now in a pan add ghee, mustard seeds, let them crackle then add peanuts. Then add roasted gram dal, sliced coconut, curry leaves, red chilli and asafoetida, and mix well. Add turmeric powder, jaggery and salt. Switch off the gas and add the roasted makhana, mix well, cool down and serve! It is one of the tastiest makhana recipes for weight loss.

3. Makhana salad:

Dry roast your makhana and chop any veggies of your choice such as onion, tomato, cucumber and coriander. Mix onion, cucumber and tomatoes in a bowl. Add moong sprouts and squeeze a lemon over them. Now add coriander leaves and the roasted makhanas. Sprinkle black pepper and serve.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Is makhana suitable for babies?

Ans: Makhanas, also known as fox nuts, are among the finest meals for children and can be offered to them once they reach the age of 6 months. Starting with little amounts is a good idea; for example, a tablespoon of makhana powder may be provided for 3 to 5 days. After 6 months, it is completely safe to give babies makhana little by little. Begin with 1 tablespoon of makhana porridge and observe if there is any allergic reaction. If not, you can continue the feeding.

Q2: Can makhana be consumed with milk?

Ans: Makhana and milk are sources of high protein. Protein is considered helpful in building muscle. So if you are working out to gain weight, eat these two together.

Q3: Is makhana good for skin?

Ans: Yes! Makhana is high in antioxidants and several amino acids, which may provide anti ageing benefits, such as promoting skin suppleness and health.

Q4: Best time to eat makhana for weight loss?

Makhanas work best for weight loss when eaten as a midday snack. This is the best time to eat makhanas because it is when you get hungry after lunch and dinner is still a few hours away. 

Q5 What is makhana made up of?

Makhanas are a type of seed obtained from the Euryale ferox or Lotus flower. 

Q6 What is the best time to eat makhana?

The best time to eat makhanas is midday a few hours after lunch.

Q7 Does makhana cause heat in the body?

Makhanas may cause an increase in body heat if eaten in excessive quantities.

Q8: Does makhana cause gas or bloating?

If you consume fox nuts in moderation, they won’t cause any gas or bloating as they have an impressive fibre content. Excessive consumption of fox nuts or fox nuts recipes can make one gassy as this snack is a bit heavy to digest. 

Q9: How to eat makhana for weight gain?

You can roast makhanas in ghee and sprinkle some salt on top. You can snack on this delicious recipe and eat it whenever you feel hungry. 

Q10: Can we eat makhana in fast?

Fox nuts are naturally gluten-free and they are a popular choice for people who are fasting. 

Q11: How to eat makhana with milk?

To prepare this healthy fox nut recipe, you can roast the makhanas in ghee and keep them on one side. Take a saucepan and bring milk to a boil. Add some cardamom powder to it and allow the milk to simmer. Lower the heat and then add roasted makhanas to the mixture. Add a sweetener of your choice and adjust the taste. You can enjoy this healthy snack hot or cold. 

Q12: Can we eat makhana without roasting?

Yes. You can eat makhanas without roasting. In fact, they are softer and chewy that way. 

Q13: Are fox nuts healthy?

Yes. There are numerous benefits of eating fox nuts. They are a good source of protein, fibre, calcium, magnesium, potassium and other essential nutrients. 

Q14: How many calories are present in 1 bowl of fox nuts?

One bowl of fox nuts contains approximately 150 calories, provided you do not roast them in ghee. 

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